New book on Basic Income by Leaders and Legacies publisher released

Roderick Benns, publisher of Leaders and Legacies, spent nearly two years interviewing prominent leaders and academics across Canada on the merits of a basic income guarantee, hoping to help put the policy on the radar of politicians across the country.

A basic income (also known as a guaranteed annual income) would ensure no one ever drops below the poverty line. It ensures everyone an income sufficient to meet basic needs and live with dignity, regardless of work status.

Articles appeared on Benns’ independent, non-partisan news site, Leaders and Legacies, over a two-year period. After gathering all of the articles and question and answer sessions together, Benns says he realized he had more than 70,000 words and a 290-page book to share – Basic Income: How a Canadian Movement Could Change the World. The book is available exclusively through Amazon.

Featuring scores of interviews and articles with prominent Canadians, including federal Green Party leader Elizabeth May, Senator Art Eggleton, and retired Senators Hugh Segal and Michael Meighen, there are also interviews with MPs Scott Brison and Dan Blaikie, as well as big city mayors like Calgary’s Naheed Nenshi and Edmonton’s Don Iveson. Benns also interviewed researchers, academics, educators, and medical doctors, along with average Canadians — to get them to imagine what their lives would be like under a basic income guarantee.

“This is one of the most talked-about and compelling social policy initiatives being considered by Canadian politicians now,” says Benns, who also does communication work for the Basic Income Canada Network (BICN).

“Basic income is part of a vital conversation we need to have about inequality in Canada.”

He points out Ontario is about to announce an ambitious pilot project to test basic income policy over a multi-year period, with the federal government watching closely. Quebec is considering its own initiative, as is Prince Edward Island.

“If Canada, as a wealthy G7 nation, decides to kick-start a basic income program, this could have profoundly positive ramifications for inequality around the world.”

To purchase Basic Income: How a Canadian Movement Could Change the World, click here.